Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 25 April 2012
230 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Health the amount of money made available to the Health Service Executive for IT innovation and procurement in 2008, 2009 and 2010 respectively; the amount of this expended in each year respectively; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20954/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe HSE receives capital funding each year for ICT enabled initiatives but there is no specific line item or categorisation for IT innovations or procurement. While some capitally funded projects could be viewed as innovative in their own right, the categorisation in this regard would be somewhat subjective. Policy in relation to the deployment of operational ICT systems in the HSE is primarily based on the application of mature, proven technologies. These are selected following a business needs analysis and a detailed specification of requirements for the particular system. These systems are then selected following public procurement exercises, in compliance with EU and national procurement rules. The HSE is currently engaging with the ICT industry to explore ways to collaborate on ICT innovation and research. In addition, my Department, in conjunction with the HSE, will be developing an eHealth strategy over the coming months which will support innovation within the sector.
